Dump-and-Bake Meatball Pasta Casserole Recipe
This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is a simple and comforting one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining frozen meatballs, pasta, and marinara sauce, it bakes in one pan creating a hearty and cheesy dinner that requires minimal preparation but delivers maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen meatballs
- 1 can (24 ounces) pasta sauce
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the baking dish, mix together the frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, water, and uncooked pasta. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly covered with sauce and submerged in liquid.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are heated through.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving to add a fresh flavor and vibrant color.
Notes
- Use any type of frozen meatballs, beef, pork, or chicken depending on your preference.
- If you prefer your pasta less saucy, reduce the water to 3/4 cup.
- Feel free to add vegetables like chopped bell peppers or onions for added nutrition and flavor.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just extend the baking time slightly if baking chilled.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Keywords: meatball casserole, dump and bake, easy dinner, one dish meal, baked pasta, weeknight meal
